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About the Author

Rabbi Yaakov Salomon, C.S.W. is a noted psychotherapist, in private practice in Brooklyn, N.Y. for over 25 years. He is a Senior Lecturer and the Creative Director of Aish Hatorah's Discovery Productions. He is also an editor and author for the Artscroll Publishing Series and a member of the Kollel of Yeshiva Torah Vodaath.

In these marvelous stories -- brimming with wit, understanding, a touch of irony and a large helping of authentic Torah perspective -- we will walk with a renowned and experienced psychotherapist and popular author through the pathways of contemporary life: its crowded sidewalks, its pedestrian malls, and the occasional dead end street. This is a walk through our lives that will be fun, entertaining -- and eye-opening. In our full -- sometimes overfull -- and complex lives, Yaakov Salomon is a welcome and much-needed voice of sanity and reason.

His speaking, writing and musical talents have delighted audiences from Harvard to Broadway and everything in between. Rabbi Salomon shares his life with his wife, Temmy, and their unpredictable family.

The opinions expressed in the comment section are the personal views of the commenters. Comments are moderated, so please keep it civil.

Visitor Comments: 11

(11)
Margarita,
June 27, 2012 1:13 PM

Sometimes it's hidden from us

Sometimes it's hidden from us (most of the times I should say), but it's more in the believe.

(10)
Dvirah,
June 27, 2012 1:13 PM

What if it could and we could make it so?

The attitude of "Gam Ze L'Tova" is somewhat different from that of "couldn't be better." The first reacts favorably to events which are not obviously favorable and saves one from much needless suffering. The second, however, could blind us to the fact that we can improve our lives in many ways if we think about it. The "couldn't be better" attitude expresses resignation but not hope. The "gam ze l'tova" includes hope. A more inclusive attitude could say: this is good, but how can I make it even better? That's also something to think about.

(9)
waldo,
June 27, 2012 1:12 PM

tov

its good to see video for a good reson

(8)
Michael,
June 27, 2012 1:12 PM

"Gam zu l'tova."

Excellent treatment of a topic that is often quite difficult for two discouraging reasons; firstly , the concern for insincerity (dishonesty) and secondly, to our natural rationale, it seems illogical and goes against the very grain of our unadjusted human nature, both of which Rabbi Salomon covered comprehensively in the video. Memorable to say the least. Edifying.
"It's all for the best."

(7)
rohel,
June 27, 2012 1:11 PM

shalom u beraka

very good more videos, shalom ,

(6)
Billy,
June 27, 2012 1:11 PM

what about the consequences of free-will?

Isn't saying "all for the best" basically the same message of the philosopher Leibniz's idea that we live in the best possible and most balanced world, because it was created by a perfect G-d? The idea that "we live in the best of all possible worlds" was then, famously, satirized in the Voltaire classic Candide â€“ and this baseless optimism found to diminish the importance of free-will. How can free-will still hold any importance if every effect of a person's action is "for the best"?

(5)
Norm,
June 27, 2012 1:10 PM

Another Acquaintance of a Mr. 'H'

I know a similar Mr. 'H' - maybe the same one. I always wonder how he keeps that super-positive attitude. I figure he was born that way. But, maybe your point is that if we all keep saying 'It couldn't be better' it will affect us so that eventually we will actually feel that way.

(4)
Anonymous,
June 27, 2012 1:09 PM

Profound!!!

Never miss Rabbi Salomon's 3 minute movies. It's amazing how much one can learn in such a short period of time. His commentaries go right to the heart and soul. Thank you Rabbi.

(3)
Anonymous,
June 27, 2012 1:09 PM

Beautiful- as usual- and, of course, a great message. And I really liked that closing smile...

(2)
judykarff,
June 27, 2012 1:09 PM

it's all for the best

My nieces husband lost his job two weeks ago. He is having a negative time in his life dealing with the lost.He's a new father at 52 and married for several years. He attitude is so poor that people that care about him are annoyed.This week he will go from Phila. to Texas for an interview.I feel very strongly that your wonderful way of looking at life"It's all for the best" will motivate him, and change his outlook how he views what has been going on in his life to the suuny side of the street.Enjoy your day.

(1)
Jesselyn Morrison,
June 27, 2012 1:08 PM

A tiimely word, spoken with conviction

I enjoy all of Rabbi Salomon's videos as his experiences, observations, and tough compassion are heathful; strangely like fresh cool water flowing over my wounded soul. However, today's was astringent, a slapped-on, wake-up-smell-the-roses-or-only-coffee tonic because I could see by the way he spoke what it costs and accomplishes sometimes to affirm life, to face what comes with simple joyous equanimity. We become a continual asset to those around us. Thank you, Rabbi, we needed that --it couldn't be better!